Chapter 23.4, Problem 27LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : To describe the structure of monomer to undergo addition polymerization.

Concept Introduction : Adding monomers to grow the polymer and make it larger is called addition polymerization. This takes place by breaking the covalent bond and adding another monomer.

Answer to Problem 27LC

For a monomer to take part in addition polymerization, it must have a double bond or triple bond in its structure.

Explanation of Solution

For a monomer to take part in addition polymerization, it must have a double bond or triple bond in its structure.

Ethene under high pressure and heat will give rise to polyethene.

  ${\text{CH}}_{\text{2}}{\text{CH}}_{\text{2}}\underset{\text{highpressure}}{\overset{\text{heat}}{\to }}{{\text{(-CH}}_{\text{2}}\text{-)}}_{\text{n}}$

Another example is the production of poly vinyl chloride from vinyl chloride.

  ${\text{CH}}_{\text{2}}\text{CHCl}\to {{\text{(-CH}}_{\text{2}}\text{CHCl-)}}_{\text{n}}$

The poly vinyl chloride is formed by adding several molecules of vinyl chloride.

Conclusion

Monomers must have a double/triple bond to undergo addition polymerization. Unsaturated polymer will be converted to saturated polymers by breaking the double bond and adding the other monomer.